Postdoctoral Research Associate - Department of Biology

The Department of Biology in the Eberly College of Arts and Sciences at West Virginia University (WVU) invites applications for a Postdoctoral Research Associate. In the lab of Dr. Eddie Brzostek, the incumbent in this position will conduct research that seeks to improve our empirical and predictive understanding of how plant-microbial interactions improve the resiliency, growth, and sustainability of bioenergy crops at the ecosystem level using experiments and process based models. The incumbent will work with a diverse group of researchers in the Sustainability Theme of the Center for Bioenergy and Bioproducts Innovation (CABBI), a DOE funded Bioenergy Research Center (https://cabbi.bio). This is a full-time, benefits eligible position.

The Department of Biology has a strong research focus in ecosystem ecology with a large group of faculty, post-docs, and graduate students. This ecology group has a long track record of collaboration, has built an environment that supports team science, and enables open discussion of research ideas. In addition, the Department of Biology has access to numerous resources including the WVU Herbarium, Core Arboretum, Ecotron, and greenhouse facilities to advance innovative, collaborative research. Beyond the department, there is a plethora of nearby research sites that have hosted scientific efforts including WVU’s experimental farms and the Fernow Experimental Forest. Finally, WVU houses cutting-edge high-performance computing clusters, including Dolly Sods and Thorny Flat, which are available to support data-intensive projects. Further information can be found at the Department website: https://biology.wvu.edu.

Responsibilities:

Specific responsibilities will include, but are not limited to: refine a predictive model of plant-microbial interactions for bioenergy and agricultural ecosystems; synthesize existing data to generate validation for model developments; lead field campaigns to measure and experimentally manipulate plant-microbial interactions in bioenergy systems; perform chemical analyses of plant and soil samples in the lab; work with hourly student workers to ensure proper sample analysis and data quality control; travel to remote field sites to collect plant and soil samples; communicate research orally at scientific meetings as well as written publications in scientific journals; and assist in the preparation of grant proposals to federal agencies including DOE, NSF, and USDA.

Professional Qualifications A Ph.D. in Biology, Environmental Sciences, or a related field is required. In addition, the successful applicant must have working knowledge of ecosystem modeling and/or the desire to learn ecosystem modeling, the ability to perform field and laboratory research in biogeochemistry, plant ecology, and/or microbial ecology. Other qualifications include: coding in R, Python, or Matlab; demonstrated excellent written and oral communication skills; and demonstrated excellent interpersonal skills

Application:

To apply, please visit WVU Careers. Upload the following: 1) a curriculum vitae; 2) an application letter that discusses relevant experience and interest in research area; and 3) contact information for three references that can provide recommendation letters. The screening process will begin on January 15th, 2026 and continue until the position is filled. For more information, contact Dr. Brzostek (erbrzostek@mail.wvu.edu).

Morgantown, WV is a growing university city. The area offers abundant outdoor recreation and the cultural opportunities of a college town. It is within easy driving distance of Pittsburgh, PA (70 mi) and is within a day's driving distance to Washington DC and Columbus, OH (200 mi).